Writer and researchers Stacy Mitchell says independent businesses are making a comeback, and she has the facts to prove it.

The picture here offers some surprisingly good news on the local business front. Like did you know ...

Since 2002, there have been about 3,300 new Starbucks but close to 5,000 independent coffee shops?

And that in 2009, there were 177 new chain pharmacies that opened ... but more than 2.5 times as many independent pharmacies!

We were, of course, thrilled to read this report. Attached is a PDF of Mitchell's Localism Index.

Mitchell is a senior researcher with the New Rules Project and the author of Big-Box Swindle: The True Cost of Mega-Retailers and the Fight for America’s Independent Businesses.

About LocalShops1.comLocalShops1.com
is Tampa Bay’s most active advocate for locally owned, independent
businesses. The grassroots movement was founded in 2008 and also offers
networking meetings, store promotions, educational workshops and
community events. Memberships are available for shoppers and businesses.